Honouring Neale Daniher and a Legacy of Courage
Drive by Friday
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Drive by Friday –
Last year around this time, I wrote about Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Awareness Month and the extraordinary work of Neale Daniher.
This week, like many Australians, I was deeply saddened to hear of Neale’s passing. But what an incredible legacy he leaves behind.
Former AFL player and coach, co-founder of FightMND, and one of the most courageous public figures this country has seen, Neale faced an unimaginable diagnosis with strength, humour, dignity, and purpose.
Despite MND gradually taking away his physical abilities, his message only became more powerful:
“It’s not about how long you live; it’s about how well you live.”
MND is a devastating and incurable neurological disease that slowly impacts a person’s ability to walk, talk, eat, and breathe - while the mind often remains fully aware. Through Neale’s leadership and the support of Australians everywhere, FightMND has raised over $117 million for research, awareness, and support services. Initiatives like The Big Freeze have become more than fundraising events - they’ve become reminders of the power of community and collective compassion.
But beyond the headlines, Neale’s story also reminds us of something important in our everyday lives and workplaces. Perspective matters.
In busy workdays filled with deadlines, pressure, and competing priorities, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters. Neale had a remarkable ability to bring people back to that truth and to focus on courage, kindness, resilience, and making every day count.
As we head into June and MND Awareness Month, perhaps the best way we can honour that legacy is simply by being a little more patient, a little more present, and a little more compassionate with those around us. Behind every illness are families, carers, colleagues, and friends navigating battles we often cannot see.
If you would like to support the fight against MND, learn more, or get involved in the Big Freeze 12, visit the web site: Homepage - FightMND
This year’s Big Freeze message is: “I CHOOSE FIGHT”
It’s a rallying cry to every Australian. A call to step up, speak out and be part of something bigger. Because choosing fight doesn’t always mean grand gestures. Sometimes it starts with something as simple as pulling on a Beanie.
The Big Freeze 12 beanies are now available from your local Coles, Coles Express, Bunnings or via the web site: Homepage - FightMND
Have a great weekend and don’t forget to pick up your beanie 😊
“I CHOOSE FIGHT”
Simpli-U – supporting the fight against MND
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Lorraine Singer
Director & Consultant – Simpli-U
Recruitment Solutions for the Novated Leasing, Salary Packaging & Automotive sectors
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